Health

Stroke in users of low-dose oral contraceptives

Article Abstract:

The risk of stroke from oral contraceptives appears to be very small. A survey of 1.1 million women in a large HMO revealed 408 strokes over a three-year period. The risk of stroke in women who took oral contraceptives was only slightly greater than in those who did not. The risk of hemorrhagic stroke was also very small. Ninety-six percent of the women took oral contraceptives with less than 50 micrograms of estrogen. This is half the dose contained in oral contraceptives used in the 1960s and 1970s, which were associated with an increased risk of stroke.

Low-dose oral contraceptives and stroke

Article Abstract:

Women who take oral contraceptives need not worry about the risk of stroke unless they have other risk factors. A 1996 study found that the risk of stroke was very low among a large group of women in an HMO who used oral contraceptives. None took a contraceptive with more than 50 micrograms of estrogen and 96% took one with less than 50 micrograms. Many of the women were young and had no other risk factors for stroke, such as hypertension or diabetes. However, smokers who use oral contraceptives may have a higher risk of stroke.

Combination estrogen-progestin oral contraceptives

Article Abstract:

The benefits and adverse effects of oral contraceptives containing estrogen and a form of progesterone are reviewed. For most healthy young women, the benefits of oral contraceptives outweigh the risks. However, the adverse effects outweigh the benefits in women with a history of heart disease, stroke, or abnormal blood clotting. Women who smoke should also be discouraged from taking oral contraceptives.